13th Annual8th Grade Career Exploration Fair
Over 50 Career Role Models Inspire Nearly 600 Students at 13th Annual 8th Grade Career Exploration Fair
O’FALLON, IL — The O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce, Junior Achievement, Scott Air Force Base STEAM Advisory Group, and the City of O’Fallon proudly partnered once again to host the 13th Annual 8th Grade Career Exploration Fair on April 10 at the Regency Conference Center.
The event welcomed close to 600 students from O’Fallon-Shiloh’s public and private schools, connecting them with 56 professionals representing a wide variety of career fields—from healthcare and engineering to trades, technology, and public service. The fair is offered at no cost to participating schools.
“This event is all about planting seeds,” said Debbie Arell-Martinez, President/CEO of the O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce. “We want students to walk away feeling curious and inspired. Whether it sparks a lifelong goal or simply opens their eyes to new possibilities, this fair is a meaningful step in helping them imagine their future.”
Photos and video from the event can be found at Annual 8th Grade Career Fair 2025 – O'Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce and (2) Facebook.
The Chamber extends its gratitude to the sponsors who make this event possible year after year through their generous support.
About the O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce
The O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit business membership organization made up of 550+ members representing the local communities as well as the Metro East. The Chamber has represented the interests of the local business community since 1946.
About Junior Achievement in Southwestern Illinois
Junior Achievement is the nation's largest organization dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their futures, and make smart academic and economic choices. Junior Achievement in Southwestern Illinois supports our area schools and educators by providing valuable kindergarten through high school classroom resources that are well-tested, hands-on programs taught by caring community and business volunteers. With a range of different programs, Junior Achievement teaches about concepts relating to entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and work readiness. JA's programs are correlated to the Illinois Learning Standards and Grade Level Expectations.
